Hello, my name is Lisa Pascadlo and I’m your District 2 Community Intelligence Unit Detective. My goal is to pass on to you information that may help you make good decisions for yourself, your family and your community!

The holiday season is upon us, and although it mostly brings good things, it unfortunately makes more opportunities for criminals to take advantage of the community.

This time of the year is very active for the police department. We see increased car prowls (as criminals try to steal Christmas items), theft by deception (people representing a fraudulent charity) and other property-related crimes. Do your part in preventing you and your family from becoming a victim this holdiay season by following some of these simple tips.

Holiday Safety Tips:

Lock your doors and windows if you are going out, no matter how short the period of time you will be gone.

Keep gifts away from areas, such as windows, where they can be seen by outside travelers.

Use a peep-hole when someone comes to the door. Never let anyone into your home that you do not know.

Avoid carrying large amounts of cash or other valuables.

Use ATM’s machines during the day. Be ready with card in hand as you approach the machine, do not linger longer than necessary. Do not approach an ATM if you are uneasy of the surroundings.

Do not leave packages unattended in your car unless they are locked in the trunk.

When carrying a purse hold it close to your body. Always carry a wallet in an inside coat or front pant pocket, never a back pant pocket. Do not over burden yourself with packages.

Stay in well-lit areas and on heavily traveled streets. Avoid routes that take you through parking lots, alleys, or other dark vacant areas.

When going shopping, go with family or friends, there is safety in numbers.

Use a debit or credit card instead of cash—it is easier to carry and replaceable if lost or stolen.

If shopping with your children, make sure that they know who to go to in case they get lost in a store: a store clerk, security guard, or police officer.

When returning to your house from an outing, do not go in if there are signs that someone has forced entry while you were away. Go to a neighbor’s house and call the police immediately.

Holiday Traveling Tips:

Take precautions to prevent your home from looking vacant such as:

Have your mail or newspaper service stopped while you are gone.

Ask a neighbor to shovel your walk.

Get an electric timer for your lights.

Also:

Call the police department and ask for a vacation patrol check.

Stay alert and aware of your surroundings no matter where you are.

Always trust your instincts. If people or locations are making you uneasy, leave or stay away.

Charitable Donations:

Before donating make sure that you know about the charity.

Do not donate to a charity you are not familiar with. If solicited by an organization, ask for literature on them before you decide to donate.

If solicited by an individual, offer food or other non-monetary donations.

If someone is going door to door soliciting donations, ask to see their city permit. SLC Ordinance requires them to have credentials for door to door solicitation. Don’t hesitate to contact the police (801-799-3000) if they do not have proper credentials or if you feel they are suspicious in any way.

Please feel free to contact me regarding any issue in Council District 2. You can reach me via email at lisa.pascadlo@slcgov.com or follow me on Twitter: @SlcpdCIUdist2.